- A record 9,867 bears were captured in Japan between April and October 2025, the highest number since 2006.
- Increased bear sightings in urban areas and a significant decline in licensed hunters are contributing factors.
- The government will offer financial support and implement zoning to manage bear populations and reduce human-bear conflict.

A: Hey! Did you hear about the news? Bears everywhere!

B: No way! Really? What's going on?

A: Apparently, a record number of bears were caught this year! Like, almost ten thousand!

B: Wow! That’s a lot! Where are they mostly?

A: Mostly in the Tohoku region, up north. Akita Prefecture had the most!

B: Crazy! So, why are there so many bears?

A: The government thinks they're wandering into towns more. Plus, there aren't as many hunters anymore.

B: That’s not good! Fewer hunters mean more bears around people.

A: Exactly! The number of hunters with the right licenses has dropped a lot since the eighties.

B: So, what's the government doing about it?

A: They’re going to help towns hire hunters. And they want to create special zones to keep people and bears separate.

B: Smart! Hopefully, that will help keep everyone safe!

A: Fingers crossed! Let's be careful out there!